Ashley Rivera, popularly known online as Petra Mahalimuyak, is closing the year with a major career milestone after being officially unveiled as the 2026 calendar girl of White Castle Whisky.
During the launch held in Quezon City on Friday, Rivera shared how the experience affirmed her confidence and commitment to body positivity, especially in an era dominated by rigid beauty standards on social media.
“Buti na lang kahit hindi ako maka-prepare the way I wanted to, nakita pa rin na very sexy,” Rivera said in an interview.
She admitted being aware of online expectations but stressed that she has learned to fully embrace her natural body. “Alam ko mga netizens gusto ng mas payat. Ako, I embrace my curvatures. Malaman ako pero palaban. Iba-iba tayo eh, all shapes and sizes. It is about confidence,” she added.
Rivera revealed that becoming a White Castle Whisky calendar girl was once a casual wish she mentioned on her podcast five years ago, inspired by a previous calendar featuring Carmi Martin. What began as an offhand comment eventually turned into reality.
“I’m really happy because I was not expecting anything. It was said lightly, wouldn’t it be fun. Hindi siya parinig. But since I did not have that plan of purpose, I think mas na-feel nila I genuinely wanted it. It was nice napakingan nila,” she recalled.
Reflecting on the experience, Rivera described the project as a personal example of manifestation. “Ito naging prime example ng manifestation. Manifestation would only be successful if you truly believe you deserve it. Even if say mina-manifest mo, if may doubt ka, ‘di mo makukuha. But I guess the universe knew how much I wanted it. The universe gave it like a gift,” she said.
For the actress and content creator, the opportunity goes beyond posing for a calendar. “I am not taking it for granted, I am really enjoying it,” she emphasized, adding that she hopes her feature will inspire others to practice self-love and confidence.
Rivera also shared her excitement upon seeing the concept and visuals for the shoot. “When I found out, nagulat ako. Humabol pa. Then they started sharing the storyboard, the layout. I was so happy. Ang sosyal, nasa ranch kami, very classic,” she said.
Known for her versatility as a comedian, podcast host, influencer, and actress—including her role as Batis ng Katotohanan in ‘Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre’—Rivera described the calendar girl stint as a memorable milestone in her growing career as a Sparkle artist.
White Castle Whisky formally announced Rivera as its 2026 calendar girl on social media, sharing her official layouts and introducing her as the brand’s newest muse. Celebrities and friends, including Kylie Padilla, Max Collins, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Valeen Montenegro, Lexi Gonzales, Faye Lorenzo, and Pancho Magno, were quick to congratulate her online.
As Rivera ends 2025 on a high note, she hopes her latest achievement sends a clear message: confidence, authenticity, and self-acceptance are always in style. (with reports from Loyd Pino)
